Everest Three Passes Trek
Cross three legendary Himalayan passes, trek to Everest Base Camp, discover the stunning Gokyo Lakes, and experience the most complete trekking journey in the Everest region.
The Everest Three Passes Trek is widely regarded as the ultimate trekking adventure in Nepal. Combining the iconic Everest Base Camp Trek with three spectacular high mountain passes, this expedition takes you deeper into the Himalayas than the traditional Everest route, revealing remote valleys, breathtaking viewpoints, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery on Earth.
This challenging circular route links the famous Khumbu, Gokyo and Imja Valleys, crossing Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m) and Renjo La (5,360m). Along the way you'll visit Everest Base Camp, climb Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri, explore the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, and experience the rich culture of the Sherpa people.
Designed for experienced trekkers looking for the ultimate Himalayan challenge, this expedition combines physical achievement with unforgettable scenery and one of the world's greatest mountain adventures.
TRIP FACTS
Activity Type:
Hike/Trek
Location:
Nepal (see location map here)
Difficulty:
Tough
Max Altitude:
5,545m
Food Choices:
Kosher, Veggie, Vegan, Nut Free, Lactose Free, Halal
Duration:
17 Days
Accommodation:
Hotel & Tea Houses
Fitness Level:
Above Average
Grading:
5 (see grading guide here)
Best Time to Climb:
Mar - May & Sep - Nov
WHY CHOOSE THE EVEREST THREE PASSES TREK
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The ultimate Everest region trekking circuit
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Cross three spectacular Himalayan passes above 5,300m
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Visit Everest Base Camp
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Summit Kala Patthar & Gokyo Ri
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Explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes
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Trek through authentic Sherpa villages
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Fewer crowds than the classic EBC route
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Incredible views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu & Ama Dablam
WHAT YOU WILL SEE & EXPERIENCE
The journey begins with the spectacular mountain flight to Lukla before following the famous trail through Namche Bazaar and into the heart of the Khumbu region.
Unlike the traditional Everest Base Camp trek, the Three Passes route forms an incredible circuit through some of Nepal's most spectacular mountain landscapes. You'll trek through traditional Sherpa villages, visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, cross suspension bridges draped with colourful prayer flags, and spend each evening in welcoming Himalayan teahouses.
The expedition includes every major highlight of the Everest region. You'll stand at the foot of the world's highest mountain at Everest Base Camp, witness unforgettable sunrise views from Kala Patthar, explore the beautiful turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and climb Gokyo Ri, widely regarded as one of the finest viewpoints in the Himalayas.
The true challenge -and reward - comes from crossing the three legendary high passes: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). Each offers its own unique scenery and perspective of the Everest region, from towering glaciers and vast ice fields to panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and countless surrounding Himalayan giants.
With quieter trails than the classic Everest Base Camp route and an ever-changing landscape of glaciers, alpine valleys, high mountain passes, and remote villages, the Three Passes Trek is considered by many to be the finest trekking adventure in Nepal.
THE CHALLENGE
The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most demanding teahouse treks in Nepal and is recommended for experienced trekkers with an excellent level of fitness.
Trekkers will spend multiple consecutive days above 5,000 metres while crossing the three high passes, negotiating rocky trails, glacial terrain, and steep ascents and descents. The altitude, rather than technical climbing, presents the greatest challenge.
Our carefully planned itinerary includes dedicated acclimatisation days and follows a gradual ascent profile to maximise safety, enjoyment, and the likelihood of successfully completing all three passes.
ITINERARY
Arrive Kathmandu, 1,400m
What's included?
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Airport transfers pick-up and drop-off
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2 nights Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (one before and one after hike)
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Trail accommodation in local Tea Houses
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All accommodation based on two sharing throughout (single accommodation extra)
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Airfare both ways Kathmandu - Lukla - Kathmandu
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Sherpa guides
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Everest National Park entry permits
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Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS card) permit
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Meals each day: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Transportations, accommodation, wages, food, insurance, equipment for all staff
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All necessary paper works and entry permits
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Porters/Yaks to carry luggage during the trek
What's excluded?
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International flights
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Additional or replacement transport/flights not mentioned in the included items
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Fuel or flight surcharges
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Inland flight baggage surcharges
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Insurance
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Local Tips
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Additional food & drink
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Personal Items
FLYING INTO THE HIMALAYA REGION
Flying from Kathmandu to the Himalayas is not always an easy thing to do. Dangers with bad weather are common, therefore we recommend clients familiarise themselves with the general aviation procedures followed in the region.
Please follow the link below to read more about airline and helicopters in the Everest & Annapurna Regions and how we deal with the challenges of flights affected by bad weather conditions.
